Samuel Smith’s Burns Hotel in shortlist of top ten York pubs

The Burns Hotel, a Samuel Smith’s pub in 23 Market Street is one of ten establishments shortlisted in The Press reader competition to crown the best York pub for 2026.

The Tadcaster base-brewery and pub owner is known for brewing a wide range of traditional beers from natural ingredients – thought to include historic methods such as slate Yorkshire Square fermentation – to create its cask ale Old Brewery Bitter and other Samuel Smith beers.

The Burns Hotel in Market Street, York, is shortlisted in the top ten by readers of The Press as a contender in its Best Pub 2026 competition (Image: Kevin Glenton)

Samuel Smith describes its pubs as “a haven from the digital world – there are no TVs or background music.

“The use of mobile phones, laptops and other tech is not allowed in our pubs.

“Friendly pub conversation is encouraged (no swearing!) together with the responsible enjoyment of our beers.”

A notice from City of York Council in the pub window seen on Friday, July 17, indicated that the pub has applied to serve food and drink at the front of the premises in Market Street.

Described by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) as a “typical, traditional Sam Smith’s pub in the pedestrianised city centre,” the Burns Hotel was designed to blend with York’s historic streetscape.

The interior has drawn frequent praise from both locals and tourists.

The public house was built in the mid 19th century incorporating an adjacent house of early 18th century date, and formerly one of a pair with number 21, according to City of York Council’s records.

On TripAdvisor, one person who visits the city in their leisure time said: “A pub I always look forward to visiting on any holiday I take to York is The Burns Hotel, been here many times over the years.

“I was visiting this pub when it was called The Hansom Cab Pub many years ago, it’s a great Samuel Smiths Pub to unwind in.

“I like the look of this pub, the interior is superb, dark wood features abound, an eye-catching serving bar dominates the main room, with pub-like decor and furnishings and plenty of seating options spread throughout – it’s a great pub to unwind in.”

Many visitors echo this sentiment, noting the “great beer” at Samuel Smith’s prices.

The pub’s rules, which include avoiding loud music are often highlighted in reviews as part of its appeal.

One reviewer said: “A great pub, great beers, stick to the rules… no loud music.”

Voting slips for The York Press Best Pub 2026 are in copies of the newspaper up to and including Saturday, August 5 and must be posted off to the address provided to count.

The winner will be announced shortly afterwards.